Introduction
Fault code P0087 is an OBD-II trouble code indicating excessively low fuel pressure in the common rail system of a diesel engine. This critical issue can lead to severe symptoms like engine misfires, significant power loss, and even engine stalling, requiring prompt intervention to prevent engine damage.
What is the Common Rail?
The common rail is a central component of modern diesel engine injection systems. Its role is to store fuel at very high pressure and distribute it precisely and synchronously to each injector, ensuring optimal combustion.
Symptoms of Code P0087
- Illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
- Engine misfires and vibrations
- Significant power loss
- Hesitation or misfires during acceleration
- Engine stalling
- Hard starting
- Abnormally high fuel consumption
Main Causes of Code P0087
- Faulty high-pressure fuel pump (wear, insufficient flow)
- Defective fuel pressure regulator
- Faulty fuel pressure sensor (rail sensor) (sending incorrect data to the ECU)
- Leak in the high-pressure fuel circuit (leak at the rail, injectors, or lines)
- Faulty or leaking injector
- Clogged or dirty fuel filter (restricting fuel supply)
- Faulty lift pump (low-pressure pump)
How to Diagnose Code P0087
Diagnosis requires an OBD-II diagnostic tool and a pressure gauge to measure fuel pressure. Follow these steps:
- Read fault codes with the OBD-II tool and clear temporary codes.
- Visually inspect the fuel circuit for any obvious leaks.
- Measure fuel pressure with a pressure gauge and compare values with manufacturer specifications.
- Test the pressure regulator and rail pressure sensor using a multimeter.
- Inspect and/or replace the fuel filter if its condition is questionable.
- Check the high-pressure fuel pump flow rate.
- Test injector sealing.
Possible Repairs for Code P0087
The repair entirely depends on the root cause identified during diagnosis.
- Replace the high-pressure fuel pump
- Replace the fuel pressure regulator
- Replace the common rail pressure sensor
- Repair the high-pressure circuit leak (replace seals, lines)
- Replace the faulty injector
- Replace the clogged fuel filter
- Replace the lift pump (low-pressure pump)
Technical Sheet: Cost and Complexity
- Required tools: OBD-II diagnostic tool, pressure gauge, wrench set, multimeter.
- Required skills: Advanced automotive mechanics, knowledge of Common Rail systems.
- Estimated repair time: 2 to 6 hours, depending on the cause.
- Estimated cost: Variable, from €200 for a filter to several thousand euros for an HP pump or injectors.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Code P0087 indicates a serious low fuel pressure problem that should not be ignored. Continued driving with this fault can cause severe and costly engine damage.
⚠️ Experiencing Code P0087? Don’t take risks. Entrust the diagnosis and repair to a qualified professional for accurate diagnosis and guaranteed repair.